J.J. McCarthy - 2025 Dynasty Fantasy Football Sleepers and Trade Targets

J.J. McCarthy is a dynasty fantasy football sleeper and trade target for 2025. Read the fantasy football outlook for the Minnesota Vikings quarterback.

RotoBaller Dynasty Ranking: QB15

Dynasty Analysis: McCarthy missed his entire rookie season in 2024 after tearing his meniscus in training camp.

Following McCarthy’s injury, Sam Darnold became Minnesota’s de facto QB1 and had an incredible 2024. He threw for a career-high 4,319 yards and 35 passing touchdowns but came crashing down to earth in the season’s final two games.

Minnesota subsequently decided not to re-sign Darnold, allowing him to walk into free agency. McCarthy had to survive a brief scare that future Hall of Fame quarterback Aaron Rodgers would join Minnesota. However, that storm has passed, and the Vikings have confirmed they are committed to McCarthy for the 2025 season.

There is some uncertainty surrounding McCarthy since he missed his entire rookie season and is an unproven player. However, this is still a quarterback with top-10 draft capital tied to a strong offensive coach and surrounded by an abundance of talent. This is a fantastic situation for a first-year starting quarterback. McCarthy is the perfect trade target if you are looking for a quarterback.

Let it fly 9️⃣@jjmccarthy09 pic.twitter.com/hqgXwEXT23

— Minnesota Vikings (@Vikings) May 27, 2025

Yes, we don't know his floor, and he could hurt your team if he's truly awful. But he might have a higher ceiling than some people think. Head coach Kevin O'Connell worked wonders for Darnold's career last year. Considering the situation surrounding McCarthy, it shouldn't be that surprising if he has similar production.

- Dave Ventresca

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